| Brand Name: |
Madopar |
| Generic Name: |
Levodopa/Benserazide Hydrochloride |
| Form: |
Capsules |
| Manufacturer: |
Roche Products |
What is Madopar?
Madopar containing the 2 active ingredients levodopa and benserazide is considered a dopaminergic drug. Levodopa is changed into dopamine in the body to help restore the level of dopamine in the damaged area in the brain and benserazide, which prevents levodopa from being broken down into dopamine in parts of the body other than the brain and to help reduce side effects. The medication is generally prescribed to treat Parkinson’s disease.
How is Madopar used?
Madopar is usually taken orally 3 to 4 times per day or as directed by a doctor. The medication should be taken with a snack or meal along with a glass of water. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage and length of treatment as it will depend on the patient’s condition and their response to the therapy. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not broken, chewed or crushed to prevent too much of the drug from being released at once.
Adverse effects
Patients using Madopar may encounter unwanted side effects such as:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Daytime drowsiness
- Insomnia
- Visual disturbances
- Increased sex drive
- Mental or mood changes
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or worsen.
Warnings
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Madopar is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed. |
